Boxing to Beat Parkinson’s? Really?

There is no known cure for Parkinson’s Disease. There are, however, proven methods to improve the quality and even lengthen the lives of Parkinson’s patients. Medical experts agree that specific types of rigorous physical exercise, such as boxing, can improve range of motion, flexibility, posture, gait, and the activities of daily living. Recent studies suggest that certain kinds of exercise may actually slow disease progression.

Rock Steady Boxing based in Indianapolis, Indiana, offers an intensive course for personal trainers like me to become coaches in the Rock Steady Boxing method for Parkinson’s patients. My goal is to become certified as a Rock Steady Boxing coach so that I can provide much needed services to Jerusalem’s and Israel’s Parkinson’s community.

There are more than 25,000 Israelis who suffer from Parkinson’s disease, with 11,000 in the Jerusalem area alone. In fact, recent studies indicate a strong link between Parkinson’s and Ashkenazi Jews. Tikvah for Parkinson is a Jerusalem-based organization that offers various therapies and support for Parkinson’s patients and their families. Recently featured in the Jerusalem Post, the organization provides services in the Jerusalem area, with an eye toward expanding their reach to men and women all over Israel. With the enthusiastic approval of Tikvah for Parkinson, and with their generously offering the use of their facilities, I aim to start out helping the Jerusalem community knock out Parkinson’s.